Causes

Blood vessels normally narrow in response to cold temperatures or emotional stress. Raynauds is an exaggerated response to these triggers. The narrow blood vessels make it difficult to get enough blood flow to certain areas of the body. Fingers are affected most often.

It is not known what causes this abnormal reaction, but it is probably related to a problem of the nervous system. Secondary Raynauds is believed to be caused by the associated disease.

Risk Factors

Raynauds is more common in females and those aged 15-40 years old. Factors that may increase your chance of Raynauds include:

Stimulate Blood Flow

Medications

When the above measures fail, medications may help relieve symptoms. Medications that can affect blood vessel size include:

Calcium channel blockers

Alpha-blockers

Vasodilators

Surgery

Rarely, surgery may be done when symptoms are persistent and debilitating. This involves cutting the sympathetic nerves that supply the affected fingers. These nerves control the expansion and narrowing of blood vessels.

Chemical Injection

Chemicals may be injected into the nerve that is responsible for the narrowed blood vessel. The chemical stops the nerve.

Treating Underlying Medical Condition

Treating the underlying disorder will help manage the symptoms of Secondary Raynauds.

Prevention

There are no current guidelines for preventing Primary or Secondary Raynauds. To help prevent Raynauds symptoms:

Stay warm. Avoid cold temperatures when possible.

Dress in layers.

Wear clothing that covers extremities such as hats, gloves, or socks.

Learn to adapt to stressful situations.

Don't smoke. If you smoke, talk to your doctor about how to successfully
quit.

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